July 2016

Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center Announces New Executive Director

After a four-month search, the Santa California at Berkeley. Clarita Valley Senior Center is pleased to Passionate for growth, Mr. MacDonald is excited announce Kevin MacDonald as its new to be at the helm as we continue to move toward the Executive Director. “The Santa Clarita Valley new, expanded facility. “I believe this is a wonderful Senior Center is at an exciting place as we opportunity to establish a new location for the Center, approach our 40th anniversary,” said Board expand services for all seniors and further engage the President, Peggy Rasmussen, “we searched region.” Kevin begins his role at the Santa Clarita Valley with great care to find the right candidate Senior Center on Monday, July 11. to help lead this grassroots organization For over 39 years the Santa Clarita Valley Committee forward. on Aging has collaborated with government and private Our goals are to continue to provide entities to offer an unrivaled array of programs and exceptional service to the seniors of the services that keep seniors physically active, mentally Santa Clarita Valley while creating and sharp and socially connected, while also providing implementing new, expanded programming their caregivers and adult children support, respite, and for seniors of all capacities. The Executive peace of mind. With over thirty individual programs, the Director position is integral as we continue Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center has one of the largest to explore and identify opportunities to fulfill spectrums of programs and services for senior citizens in our mission and expand our organization.” Kevin MacDonald the state of California. Mr. MacDonald has a unique combination of nonprofit and business Motown Comes to experience. Kevin spent over two decades as Santa Clarita! Executive Director with The Arc Los Angeles and Orange Counties, a CARF accredited, Keep your eyes peeled for the next nonprofit organization dedicated to issues of The Mighty Oak which will fea- the needs of children and adults with ture all the highlights from the evening. intellectual and developmental disabilities. “I believe my 23 years of leading The Arc is excellent preparation to take on this new challenge of serving the Senior community and building on the successes of the SCV Senior Center. “ Mr. MacDonald has a Bachelor’s degree in Business from the University of Dayton, Dayton, Ohio and a MBA with a concentration in Public/Nonprofit Management from the University of

Classes at The Center ... page 3 Trips & Tours ... page 7 What’s Inside? Health & Wellness Schedule ... page 6 Menu For July ... page 11

SCV Senior Center The Mighty Oak 1 What is Life Care Planning? by Jane M. McNamara, Elder Law/Life Care Planning Attorney

The needs of the elderly and disabled are not just financial. Each day, our Seniors are confronted with new needs and new challenges. These involve declining health, declining memory and cognitive function, as well Contributing Writers: as finding and paying for proper care. Jane M. McNamara Elder Law has traditionally focused on protecting as- Nola Aronson sets from the high cost of skilled nursing care. However, Rita Roth a few Law Firms now provide Life Care Planning, which Robin Clough focuses on ALL of the needs of the elder, not just asset Sarah Stevenson protection. The goal of Life Care Planning is to promote and maintain good health, safety, well-being, and quality The Mighty Oak is published monthly by the SCV Senior of life for the elderly and disabled, and to help guide the families who care Center for them. Our Elder Law attorneys, Elder Care Coordinators, and team of 22900 Market Street, Santa Clarita, CA 91321 legal professionals work with our clients to establish quality care, help with Tel: 661-259-9444 • FAX: 661-255-5195 important decisions, apply for benefits (Medi-Cal and VA Benefits), and pro- For Advertising Information Contact: vide guidance and advocacy. As a result, the Senior receives better care, is Jennifer DeHaven able to pay for that care with the assistance of benefits, preserve their assets, Executive Assistant and stay out of a nursing home. [email protected] At the McNamara Law Firm, our team strives to: 661-259-9444 • Assure that your loved one gets the appropriate level of care, whether at home or in a facility, and to maintain the best quality of life possible; www.scv-seniorcenter.org • Identify, and then qualify and apply for benefits to help pay for expen- Production: Prime Publications, Inc sive care (assisted living, board and care, in-home caregivers, skilled nursing Tel: 661-294-4444 • FAX: 661-294-4442 facilities); email: [email protected] Continued on facing page

2 The Mighty Oak July 2016 Ongoing Classes at The SCV Senior Center The SCV Senior Center offers over 100 educational, recreational, and supportive programs on a regular basis. Most activities are for adults 18 and over. For more complete information and fees, please call the Center at 661-259-9444, or visit our website at www.scv-seniorcenter.org Arts & Crafts Classes Lifelong Learning • Art Workshop – Tues., Wed. & Thurs., 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Room A2 • Archaeology & History Discussion – Tues. , 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. , Room A1 free • Needlework – Mon., 9 a.m. – noon, Room A1 • French – Wed., 10 a.m. – 11 a.m., SS • Watercolor Virtual Art Lessons – Beginner level: Fri. 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.; • Digital Drop In – by Julie Oshiro – Second Thurs, 9:00 – 11:00, Reception Office Intermediate level: Thurs. 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m., Room A6 • Billiards Lessons for Ladies – Tues., Beginners 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Intermediates 7 p.m. Dance & Music to 8 p.m. in the Senior Center Billiards Room with Instructor Russ Evans • Line Dance – by Ramona Thomas, Mon., 2 p.m.–3 p.m., Dining Room • Computer Class – PC and Mac starting in January 2016, call SCV Senior Center • Line Dance – by Helen Walker, Tues., 9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.,Dining Room for more information. • Line Dance – by Marie Del Georgio, Wed., 6 p.m.–7:30 p.m. • Creative Writing – Mon., 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Room A6 • Orchestron – Wed, 2:45-5:30 p.m. Rooms A1 & A2 • Sharpen Your Computer Skills – Word and Excel computer classes for beginners, seniors going back to work or anyone interested in learning new skills. • Silvertones Singers – Mon., 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., Newhall Community Center • ZoomText Computer Tutoring for the Visually Impaired – Call for an appointment. • Tap Dancing – by Laura Russell, Thurs., 9:30 – 10:20 in the Dining Room Personal Development Fitness Programs • AARP Drivers Safety – Monthly, Rooms A1 & A2, call for dates • Advanced T’ai Chi Ch’uan – by Allen Wells on Tues., Thurs., 8:45 a.m. to 9:30 • Conscious Aging Workshops by Dr. Teri Crane 4th Thurs., 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., A6 a.m., Dining Room • Current Events Discussion Group – Mon ., 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Conference • Beginning T’ai Chi Ch’uan – by Allen Wells on Tues., Thurs., 8 a.m. to 8:40 a.m., Rm. Supportive Services, free Dining Room • Mindful Meditation For Health & Happiness – Mondays, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Room A6 • Chair Yoga – Tues & Thurs, 2-2:30, Dining Room, with Instructor Laure Sears Recreation & Leisure • Chair Yoga Dance – Tues & Thurs, 2:30 – 3:00, Dining Room, with Instructor Laure • Beginning Duplicate Bridge Lesson – Tues., 12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Room A6 Sears • Bingo – 1st and 3rd Thursdays, 2 p.m., Dining Room ($10 – cash only) • EZ T’ai Chi Ch’uan – by Sarah Lowman on Tues., 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., Dining Room • Duplicate Bridge – Mon., 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Room A2 • Fine Motor Skills – Wed., 10:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Dining Room • Duplicate Bridge Evenings – Tues., 6:45 p.m. to 10 p.m., Dining Room • Fitness – Mon., Wed., & Fri., 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., Dining Room • Canasta – Mon., 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Room A1 • Flex & Flow Yoga – Mon. & Wed., 4:15 – 5 p.m. in the Dining Room with Inst. Diane Hedrick • Chess Club – Mon. – Fri., 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Room A5 • Restorative & Gentle Yoga – Thurs., 8:20 a.m. – 9:20 a.m., Rooms A1 & A2 • Pinochle – Mon., Wed., Fri., 1 p.m.to 4:30 p.m., Room A4 • Sit & Be Fit Chair Exercise – Mon., Wed., Fri., 9:45 a.m. to 10:15 a.m., Dining Room • Food & Knick-Knack Bingo – Fri. , 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Room A2 • Zumba Gold – Mon., Wed.,& Fri., 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. in the Dining Room with Inst. Diane Hedrick • Ping Pong – Tues, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. • Wii Games – Tues. & Thurs., 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Room A6

Jane McNamara continued from facing page

• Preserve and protect assets, minimize taxes, and elimi- nate State recovery against the home; • Assure that the legal documents are in order, and guide the family in managing the Senior’s health, finances, and other important issues. Unfortunately, the health care industry often falls short of providing quality services to our Seniors, or providing appro- priate options regarding long term care. Families need advo- cacy and guidance when trying to help their elderly loved one, and this advocacy and guidance is the centerpiece of Life Care Planning. Our team works very hard to help each client navi- gate the complex areas involving senior health care, monetary benefits that help pay for care, asset protection, and other dif- ficult issues associated with aging. For more information, or for an appointment, please call the McNamara Law Firm, PC at 661-287-3260, or visit www. themcnamaralawfirm.com.

SCV Senior Center The Mighty Oak 3 SCV Senior Center Flexes Its Volunteer Muscle at the Santa Clarita 4th of July Parade by Robin Clough, Volunteer & Recreation Coordinator Cheer for your SCV Senior Center float at the Santa Clarita nator John Swinford. Seated at the 4th of July Parade! The parade theme “Volunteering Makes Us front of the float is Rosie the Riveter Stronger” is certainly true at the SCV Senior Center where volun- authentically portrayed by volunteer teers contribute over 60,000 hours a year to promote quality of Louise Willard. life for seniors! We greatly appreciate the kind Our parade float banner slogan is “Strength in Volunteers” generosity of parade t-shirt spon- which highlights the power of SCV Senior Center volunteers in sors Bob Comer and Bob Comer providing critical services. The banner is composed of a dra- Print Sales, Inc; Barbara Morris and matic rendering of the bald eagle and American flag as symbols B. Graphic; and Becky Bunjak. Our of strength. thanks to Dolly and Richie Pauley of Be sure to salute Veteran and Senior of the Year Chuck Mor- Town and Country Car- ris who will ride in a Home-Delivered Meal vehicle. SCV Se- riage for providing the nior Center volunteers flex their muscles lifting weights along the classic wagon and Pat parade route indicating Kouri for the John Deere their impact on strength- tractor. Liza Lieberman ening the SCV Senior shared her amazing tech- Center and our commu- nology aptitude in the nity. An enormous bar- music recording. bell will be lifted on the The creative build- float. Music of Ghost- ing of the float and props busters with lyrics al- would not have been tered to “Who You Gon- possible without the tireless work of Louise Willard and family, na Call? Senior Center June and Tess Carlos, Dr. Gene Dorio, and Wayne Burns. Volunteers!” is sung by The parade begins at 9 a.m. at 5th Street and Main Street and Performing Arts Coordi- concludes on 16th Street. See you there in your red, white, and blue!

4 The Mighty Oak July 2016 Ask the Experts at Advanced Audiology Serve A Meal, Serve A Cause Q: How is hearing loss in children linked to obesity? by Robin Clough, Volunteer/Recreation Coordinator

A: There has been a 30 percent increase in hearing loss Every weekday, around 300 Santa Clarita home- among adolescents over the past 20 years. Though the major- bound seniors await the delivery of a meal that might ity of the blame has fallen on the widespread use of MP3 play- be the only one they eat that day. At the SCV Senior ers and earbuds, there now appears to be a new suspect in this Center site, over 200 seniors gather daily to share a dramatic increase — obesity. lunch and joyful interaction with their peers. This According to a recent study, obese children were twice amazing accomplishment is possible because of vol- unteers. Unfortunately, because of a shortage of volun- as likely to have sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in at least teers, meals are in jeopardy of not being served. Who one ear. Sensorineural loss indicates damage to the inner ear are these senior meal recipients? They are your parents, (cochlea) and is the most common type of permanent hearing grandparents, teachers, first responders, and veterans. loss. They are the ones who established the foundation of A rise in SNHL among adolescents parallels the similar rise in adolescent obe- our community. sity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “The percentage From the early days of America, volunteers have of children aged six to 11 years in the United States who were obese increased from given of their time and energy to treat community needs. seven percent in 1980 to nearly 18 percent in 2010. Similarly, the percentage of The SCV Senior Center Nutrition Program is experienc- adolescents aged 12 to 19 years who were obese increased from five percent to 18 ing a critical dearth of volunteers and hopes in that same percent over the same period.” spirit those in Santa Clarita will answer the call. Make a The increase in hearing loss among overweight children is troubling as many difference by contributing as little as a few hours a week parents remain unaware of the subtle signs of hearing loss and children themselves or even serving as an on-call volunteer when your sched- often don’t recognize the condition. ule allows. Nutrition Program volunteers shifts are any weekday. Lunches for the homebound are packed from Hearing loss often goes unnoticed because the symptoms mimic normal child- 6:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and lunches are served on site hood behaviors such as trouble paying attention or not responding when called with kitchen cleanup from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Your upon. This new research further cements the need for all children to have annual time and efforts will not only make a positive difference hearing checkups with a hearing health professional. in a recipient’s life, but allow you to serve by honoring If you know a child who may benefit from a hearing test, please contact our ex- those who have served you. perts at Nola Aronson’s Advanced Audiology, 661-877-9061. If you have questions Contact Volunteer Coordinator Robin Clough at you’d like to “Ask the Audiologist”, please email [email protected]. 661-259-9444, or [email protected].

SCV Senior Center The Mighty Oak 5 Girl Scout Troop 7142 Achieve Silver Awards and Ensure Safety by Robin Clough, Volunteer & Recreation Coordinator

Thank you Girl Scout Troop 7142 for donating earthquake and first aid kits to the SCV Senior Center. Scouts Keeley Shaugh- nessy, Allyson Asis and Samantha Mccray chose to help the Center as a community service project for their Silver Awards. Funds for disaster supplies were raised by going to local businesses, obtain- ing a corporate donation, and even baking cookies and cupcakes for bake sales. The Scouts and the SCV Senior Center express special appreciation to Boston Scientific in Valencia for their generous donation to this cause. With their hard- earned proceeds the girls purchased lan- terns, radios, and other supplies which they organized into large Health Education & Wellness first aid kits. The SCV Senior Center and its guests were excited when the Scouts presented these life-saving supplies. The girls Schedule at the SCV Senior Center even offered gift card door prizes for many lucky seniors. July 2016 The SCV Senior Center is grateful to Keeley, Allyson, and Sa- mantha for their hard work and commitment to ensuring safety Free Lectures: Held on Wednesdays from 1-2 p.m. in activity rooms A-1 and A-2 for seniors. Congratulations on earning your well-deserved Silver (unless otherwise noted) Awards! • Wednesday, July 6 – 1:00pm: Healthy Living to 100, Dr. Carolyn Griffin, Back to Health Chiropractic Concert & Art Exhibit • Friday, July 13 – 1:00pm: Compassion Fatigue, Alissa “Girls Night Out” – Girls’ Concert of Songs M. Myatt, LCSW, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Featuring Women’s Names • Wednesday, July 20 – 1:00pm: Vitamins and Minerals, Lisa Johansen, MS, RD, ENHANCE Program The Silvertone Singers present a • Thursday, July 21 – 1:00pm: Free Legal Services, Bet light-hearted, entertaining program to Tzedek, By Appointment Only, Call Support Services to honor some very special ladies. “Girls’ schedule an appointment Night Out” consists entirely of tunes fea- • Wednesday, July 27 – 1:00pm: Living with Arthritis and turing women’s names. Enjoy the dul- Related Disorders, Eileen F. Schwartz Breyde, MD, Provi- cet tones of the silver-throated chorale, dence Institute for Human Caring talented instrumentalists, and inspiring soloists as they perform “Once in Love Health Screenings with Amy”, “Laura”, “Maria”, “Barbara • Blood Pressure Checks: Wednesday, July 6 from 12pm Ann”, and many more. Sing along or even dance to your favorite – 1pm in the reception office. Wednesday, July (13th can- songs. The room will be comfortably air-conditioned but the mu- celled), 20th, 27th 10:30am – 12:00pm,Reception Office sic will be hot! • Hearing Screenings: No screenings scheduled Art Exhibit features • Diabetes Screening: No screenings scheduled masterpieces by SCV Se- • Brain Wellness/Memory Screenings: By Appointment nior Center art students. Support Groups Each artist has donated a painting for sale to ben- • Emotional Support Group: Tuesdays 10:00 – 11:00am efit the new senior center • Grief Support: Tuesdays 11:00am – 12:00pm building fund. • Caregiver Support Group: Fridays 9:30am – 10:30am • Caregiver Workshop: Fridays 10:30 – 11:30am Thursday, July 28 •Visually Impaired Support Group: July 11 and July Concert: 2:45 – 4:30 p.m. Donations Accepted 25, 12:30 – 1:30pm, Bouquet Canyon Senior Apartments Art Show: 2:30 Light Refreshments will SCV Senior Center Dining Room be served 6 The Mighty Oak July 2016 Color Me Mine Fun at the SCV Senior Center TRIPS &TOURS Wednesday, July 20 SCVSC Trips & Tours Presents Fun and 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. Adventurous Outings for All Ages SCV Senior Center Agua Caliente Casino Rooms A1 and A2 Tuesday, July 05, 2016 Prepay by Friday, July 13 Depart: 8:00 a.m. Return: approx. 6:30 p.m. Color yourself Crafty! Paint and Cost: $28 per person (no refunds) personalize your own dish or Experience the slot players dream with more mug. Create the perfect func- than 1,300 machines, including more than 750 tional gift or keepsake. Cost penny slots, progressive and much more! For includes item, supplies, glazing, the poker players, it’s the only casino with a live poker room in the valley! and firing. With 36 of your favorite Table Games, there’s something for everyone! Plate: $25 Tea mug: $30 Pala Casino & Resort Animal Print Mug: $26 Tuesday, August 30, 2016 Moo Mug: $28 Price $28 – No Refunds! Flamingo Mug: $28 Departs 9:30 am For more information, please call Returns approx. 6:30 pm 661-259-9444. State-of-the-art slot & video machines, 87 table games, 10 great restaurants and 2 lounges with live entertainment. 60+ Club Members receive a 30% discount on Buffet every Tuesday. All shows start at 1:00 pm with a chance to win $300 after the show (Must be present to win).

Santa Barbara’s John Dunn Gourmet Dining Thursday, September 22, 2016 Price: $59.00 No Refunds after August 22, 2016) Departs at 9:00 am Returns approximately 7:00 pm Savor the flavors of Santa Barbara’s Cu- linary School. The banquet includes salad, entrée, beverage and desert. Entrée choic- es: Salmon with Béarnaise sauce, , Beef Tenderloin with Shitake and First & Third Portobello mushrooms, or Vegetarian. After your lovely lunch, enjoy the after- Thursdays noon strolling through the shops in beautiful downtown Santa Barbara! July 7 & July 21 Chukchansi Casino & Yosemite 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. Sun., October 16 – Tues., October 18, 2016 Doors open at 1:30 p.m. Price: $159 dbl occ / $199 single $10 (cash only) (No Refunds after Sept. 16, 2016) SCV Senior Center Dining Room Departs: 10/16/16 at 8:00 am Door Prizes Returns: 10/18/16 at approx. 6:30 pm Try your luck to win cash prizes! The Chukchansi Gold Casino is the Daubers Available for Purchase - $1 each only casino located on Yosemite’s doorstep! Extra Black Out Sheets - $1 With 56,000 sq. ft., play at 1,700 slot ma- Powerball - $1 chines and 36 table games. Explore beauti- ful Yosemite on Monday and return to the We thank the Fountain Glen Apartments for hotel for dinner! generously donating bingo equipment and to TRIPS & TOURS FOR YOUR NEXT DAY OF FUN Nancy & Roland Pacheco for their sponsorship. CALL…661-259-9444 EXT. 111

SCV Senior Center The Mighty Oak 7 Volunteer Spotlight – Marytza Echevarria by Robin Clough, Volunteer & Recreation Coordinator

Volunteer Marytza Echevarria never fails to answer the call to and to be aware we haven’t forgotten their generation.” The high- provide lunches for the homebound elderly and those who enjoy light of her volunteer service is chatting with seniors and listening congregate meals. She even assists at our Friendly Valley and to their stories. Marytza takes pride in knowing them person- Bouquet Canyon Apartment sites. Food Service Director, Joanna ally and even remembering the names of all 44 Bouquet Canyon Vallelunga, states, “Marytza demonstrates true exemplary vol- Apartment lunch guests. unteerism. She Because of a strong desire to give back to the community is dedicated, and get involved with nonprofit organizations and causes, Maryt- flexible, can fill za left her position with a technology consulting firm. “I didn’t in for site man- know the SCV Senior Center existed until I enrolled in Volunteer agers at both Match. When I saw the opportunity to help seniors, I said sign of our congre- me up and I’ve never looked back since!” she joyfully exclaims. gate sites and Marytza was born and raised in Los Angeles and is the comes in to youngest of five siblings. She is a huge Dodger fan and enjoys help whenever traveling, hiking, bike riding, and jokingly remarks, “dancing and and wherever singing when no one is looking.” In spite of her active pastimes, she is needed.” she is a powerhouse of energy in her mission to help the SCV Marytzva Senior Center. has a heart for “Being a volunteer at the Center has changed me,” Maryt- seniors and za reflects. “I see things from a different perspective. In the shares, “It is corporate world profit is the bottom line, but here cause and important to advocacy are much more valuable. The smile from a senior me to let them brings so much. Everyone should volunteer because you grow know I value from inside.” the path they The SCV Senior Center is grateful for the tireless and commit- paved for us ted dedication of volunteer, Marytza Echevarria. SCV Senior Center Advisory Council Senior Center Scholar Series In Celebration of Independence Day The SCV Senior Center Advisory Coun- cil works in conjunction with the SCV Com- Betsy Ross mittee on Aging and the SCV Senior Center. Historical Reenactment and The group meets every 3rd Monday of the slide show with Deborah McIn- month and community participation is wel- tosh. Deborah is a member of come. the American Association of Uni- versity Women. She brings no- table women in history to life.

Thursday, July 14 After relocating from Se- 1:00 – 1:50 p.m. attle, Sylvia Brackebush de- Rooms A-1 & A-2 cided to make the most of her When we view the flag, new life and visited the SCV we think of liberty, freedom, Senior Center for lunch one pride, and Betsy Ross. Elizabeth Wednesday during the per- Griscom “Betsy” Ross (January The role of the advisory council mem- formance of house band Fid- 1, 1752 – January 30, 1836) is ber is to be an advocate for the senior center dlesticks & Ivory Plus. She widely credited with making the attendees as well as the seniors of the com- was immediately befriended first American flag purportedly munity-at-large. We’re here to be a conduit by guests Mary & Steve. That in 1776 upon a visit from General George Washing- by which information relevant to the senior was nearly six years ago, and ton, commander-in-chief of the Continental Army and population is to be discussed and conveyed Sylvia says joyfully, “They are changing the shape of the stars he had sketched for the to the SCVCOA and the SCV Senior Cen- still my very best friends, and flag from six-pointed to five-pointed by demonstrating ter while promoting Independence, Dignity I’ve been coming to the Se- on the spot that it was not difficult to cut the latter. The and Quality of Life. nior Center every Wednesday For more information please contact story of Betsy Ross’s life is one of triumph through ad- since! The music is great!” the SCV Senior Center at 661-259-9444. versity. 8 The Mighty Oak July 2016 Peaches Aplenty by Rita Roth

This year my peach tree has outdone it- self, producing a wonderful crop of plump and juicy fruit. This is both good news and bad news. The good news, of course is that we have a profusion of succulent peaches to munch on. The bad news is I am forced to think up ways to use all of this abundance. To leave the peaches on the tree and pick only the amount that I am ready to use, would be my preference. However, this is not possible. Why not? I hear you ask. Well the reason is that the squirrels will not let me. Those little rascals scamper up the trunk of the tree, nestle comfortably on a branch and commence feasting. Now being a generous and kindly woman I would have no objection to sharing the fruit of my peach tree. What I would like to see happen is for the squirrel to select a peach, eat it all up and then go away. But this is not what happens. Unfortunate- ly squirrels have never learned the adage “waste not, want not” What those critters do is to pick a peach, take a bite or two, then throw it to the ground and go on to pick and throw unto infinity. What I am met with each and every time I go out is a profusion of squashed peaches on the path, leaking juice all over the place and making a big mess. To add insult to injury, I am then forced into clean up duty. Do you think this is fair? So, in effort to thwart this evil little squirrel game I decided to pick all of the fruit from the tree, and when I say all, I really mean all, literally hundreds and hundreds of peaches. Now of course the problem arises, how to use them all before they be- gin to spoil, all to quickly I’m afraid. I have so far made about seven peach cobblers which I have shared with neighbors and friends. I have cooked peaches into a kind of jam which is pretty good when eaten with sour cream or cottage cheese. I have made peach crepes, All of this culinary effort involves much pealing and slicing of peaches. The juice which makes a peach so de- lightful when you eat it, loses a lot of its charm when it is all over your hands and running up your arm. At this moment there are about sixty peaches sitting in a bowl in my refrigerator, that’s all I have room for. Another fifty or so are sitting in a wicker basket on the patio. Every time I go out onto the patio I am confronted by this basket of fruit, which is screaming at me “hurry up and do something before everything goes bad,” I am almost tempted to call in the squirrels.

SCV Senior Center The Mighty Oak 9 What’s your UV: IQ?

The skin is the body’s largest organ. It protects against heat, sun- light, injury, and infection. Yet, some of us don’t consider the necessity of protecting our skin. It’s just smart to take good care of your skin The need to protect your skin from the sun has become very clear over the years, supported by several studies linking overexposure to the sun with skin cancer. The harmful ultraviolet rays from both the sun and indoor tanning “sunlamps” can cause many other complications besides skin cancer - such as eye problems, a weakened immune sys- tem, age spots, wrinkles, and leathery skin. How to protect your skin There are simple, everyday steps you can take to safeguard your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation from the sun. Wearing clothing that will protect your skin from the harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is very important. Protective clothing are long- sleeved shirts and pants are good examples. Also, remember to protect your head and eyes with a hat and UV-resistant sunglasses. You can fall victim to sun damage on a cloudy day as well as in the winter, so dress accordingly all year round. Sunburns significantly increase one’s lifetime risk of developing skin cancer. It is especially important that children be kept from sun- burns as well. Stay out of the sun, if possible, between the peak burning hours, which, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), are between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. You can head for the shade, or make your own shade with protective clothing - including a broad-brimmed hat, for example. Use extra caution when near reflective surfaces, like water, snow, and sand. Water, snow, sand, even the windows of a building can reflect the damaging rays of the sun. That can increase your chance of sunburn, even if you’re in what you consider a shady spot. You can experience more UV exposure at higher altitudes, be- cause there is less atmosphere to absorb UV radiation. Generously apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to cover all exposed skin. The “broad spectrum” variety protects against overexposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. The FDA recommends using sunscreens that are not only broad spectrum, but that also have a sun protection factor (SPF) value of at least 15 for protection against sun-induced skin problems. Even if a sunscreen is labeled as “water-resistant,” it must be reap- plied throughout the day, especially after sweating or swimming. To be safe, apply sunscreen at a rate of one ounce every two hours. Depend- ing on how much of the body needs coverage, a full-day (six-hour) outing could require one whole tube of sunscreen. UV rays are their strongest from 10 am to 4 pm Seek shade during those times to ensure the least amount of harmful UV radiation expo- sure. When applying sunscreen be sure to reapply to all exposed skin at least 20 minutes before going outside. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating. UV rays can also penetrate the structures of your eyes and cause cell damage. According to the CDC, some of the more common sun- related vision problems include cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium (non-cancerous growth of the conjunctiva that can obstruct vision). To protect your vision, wear a wide-brimmed hat that keeps your face and eyes shaded from the sun at most angles. Continued on facing pag 10 The Mighty Oak July 2016 Honoring Sandwich Generation Caregivers Tips to Ease the Caregiving Burden by Sarah Stevenson Being a Sandwich Generation caregiver can be a source of emo- 4. Don’t forget to care for tional and financial strain, despite the intangible rewards. So what yourself. can caregivers do to manage their time, relationships and budget? Caring for the caregiver is Here are a few tips from the experts: critical — staying healthy, eat- 1. Hold family meetings. ing right and getting enough Caregiving doesn’t have to be a one-person show. Today’s rest means you’ll be in tip-top Caregiver magazine suggests splitting up the task list each week shape to care for your loved so everyone is clear on expectations and what needs to be accom- ones at home. But don’t be afraid to slow down, either, if your plished. Setting an action plan for the future can really help, too, body is clamoring for a break. See a health care professional says Kiplinger.com — especially if there are prospective financial or look into a few days of respite care to enable yourself to challenges to manage, such as selling an elderly parent’s house. recuperate. 2. Ask for professional assistance. Are you a Sandwich Generation caregiver? What has your Resources such as a local social worker, the Area Agency on experience been like? Do you have anything that you’d like to Aging, or the U.S. Health and Human Services website, Long- share with other caregivers about things you’ve learned along TermCare.gov, can help you figure out the logistics of caring for the way? We’d love children and senior parents at the same time. Similarly, Kiplinger to hear your sug- suggests getting in touch with a financial planner or accountant to gestions in the com- figure out the realities of your budget. Doing this ahead of time, if ments below. you anticipate needing to care for elderly parents, can help fend Source: www. off monetary difficulties down the road. aplaceformom. 3. Plan ahead with your kids. com/blog/2013- The Kiplinger website suggests getting children into the sav- 07-02-honoring- ings habit early. For adult children, they should make sure to con- caregivers-sand- tribute to a retirement plan, even if they are still relying on some wich-generation- support from you. When kids have to move back home, it can be month/ difficult to think about charging them rent, but setting financial MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY boundaries is key to managing a multigenerational household 1 budget. Of course, an emer- Chicken Galinhada (Brazilian chicken gency is a different story, but if w/tomatoes & onions) your children need long-term support, it’s time for another 5 6 7 Chicken 8 Cranberry family meeting! Kalbi Beef Jambalaya (Korean style beef strips Fish and Chips Chicken (Chicken tossed in a in sweet & savory sauce (Chicken with zesty tomato sauce cranberry sauce) over wild brown ) Continued from facing page CENTER CLOSED & corn Wear wrap-around style sun- 11 12 Choice Day 13 Napa Almond 14 Mediterranean 15 glass with 99 or higher UV block Braised Pork Stew Chicken Galinhada A) Roasted Fish Meat Stew (pork with onion, yellow (Brazilian chicken stew OR Sandwich (brown & wild Effective sunglasses should bell pepper, garlic, toma- w/tomatoes & onions) block glare, block 99 to 100% of toes, rosemary & thyme) B) Greek Salad (apples, grapes, rice, cubed beef, with Hot Fish chicken celery) gravy) UV rays, and have a wraparound 18 19 20 21 22 shape to protect eyes from most Choice Day Fish Taco A) Beef Liver Lemon Fish Veracruz Turkey Burger (Fish filets braised with angles. (tortilla, fish, lettuce, and Onions OR Caper Chicken (whole grain bun & (Chicken with lemon tomatoes, capers, olives tomatoes, cheese) turkey patty) When planning your outdoor B) Egg Hash (shred wedges and capers) and herbs activities, you can decide how pork, egg, spinach, potato much sun protection you need by 25 26 27 28 29 Roasted Cod Alla checking the Environmental Pro- Pasta Bolognese BBQ Pulled Pork Balsamic Egg Salad Sandwich Puttanesca tection Agency’s (EPA) UV index. (pasta with a slow (whole grain bread, diced (chicken with (cod fish with a savory (fresh baked This index measures the daily in- simmered meat sauce) egg, savory mayo) balsamic sauce) diced tomato, capers & ciabatta roll) olive sauce) tensity of UV rays from the sun on a scale of 1 to 11. A low UV in- Note: Menu is subject to change without notice. Choice Day is for Congregate Sites only. HDM Recipients will receive Option A. dex requires minimal protection, whereas a high UV index requires Menu for July 2016 maximum protection. SCV Senior Center The Mighty Oak 11